Affordable Big Island Hotels

Hawaii Vacation Connection

Aloha Bruce Fisher is in the studio to offer some insight into affordable Big Island hotels on this episode of the Hawaii Vacation Podcast. Bruce powers through a cold to discuss properties he visited on the Big Island last week. Bruce begins with some Hawaii vacation news, including Travel & Leisure listing Poipu Beach on Kauai as their Top Beach and “Dr. Beach” naming Hapuna Beach on the Big Island as one of his favorites. Bruce mentions that the sunset from Hapuna Beach is spectacular and some nearby hotels. Visitor arrival and spending numbers were up in March, especially on Maui and Oahu. “I’m sure you’re going to see pre-pandemic levels when those April numbers start coming in.” Bruce also notes a rise the average length-of-stay. Bruce then talks about the new Un-Cruise and some of the things that make it unique. “This thing is going to cost you at least $6-K per person,” Bruce says and mentions some Un-Cruise activities. A new magic show at Hilton Hawaiian Village called the “Magical Mystery Show” is discussed briefly. Bruce moves on to the main topic of affordable Big Island hotels, with Bruce noting that he took Southwest Airlines for the first time on his recent trip there. “They did a great job.” Bruce’s first stop was the Royal Kona Hotel, which has just renovated all of its rooms. Bruce says the Ali’i Tower has nice views and describes some of the new amenities there, and he says you can hear the ocean 24-7. Ukulele and hula lessons are available, and Bruce mentions entertainment at Don the Beachcomber’s. Problems with getting a rental car Dollar Rent a Car, with at least an hour wait, are noted briefly. The number of quality restaurants along Ali’i Drive is discussed, with Bruce mentioning Hugo’s and Umeke Market (“The best fresh poke you will get anywhere, ever, in the world!”). Up next is The Courtyard by Marriott, which has also been completely renovated. Bruce says it’s a great property for group travel and talks about some of the positive changes and cultural programs and tours. Bruce lauds the buffet there as the best in Kona. The Outrigger Keahou is also among affordable Big Island hotels and will be discussed in the next episode, along with the Marriott Waikoloa Beach, which is a partial time-share and offers deals for Ohana Suites.